2011 BMW 5 Series Hybrid spy photos
Spy photos from Munich, Germany this morning show BMW testing its new 5 Series Hybrid.
The photos confirm reports the luxury marque is indeed planning a hybrid version of its popular large sedan, and lends credence to the possibility of a production model all-electric version of the 5 Series, as seen at this week's Beijing Motor Show.
Dubbed 'Echo', the new all-electric 5 Series LWB may well share some of its technology with the petrol-electric hybrid variant pictured.
Sharing the same body and underpinnings as its conventionally powered sibling, it is assumed the 5 Series Hybrid will share the same powertrain as that shown in the 5 Series ActiveHybrid Concept at the Geneva Motor Show - a turbocharged six-cylinder petrol engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and 40kW electric motor. A lithium-ion battery pack, mounted close to the rear axle, will power the car's electric needs.
The BMW 5 Series Hybrid is expected to debut in late 2011 as a MY12 model.
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